12:00pm Saturday 15th September 2007
COUNCIL leader Brian Spencer has called upon the Government to intervene and halt the proposed closure of the Remploy factory in St Helens, until meaningful talks have taken place with trade unions.
Councillor Spencer made the proposals at a meeting of full council.
He also expressed his disappointment at the management of Remploy in refusing to meet with trade unions to discuss the future direction of the company.
It follows proposed talks in London between company chiefs, which were called off, after bosses refused to speak to the Unions unless they withdrew the threat of industrial action.
Cllr Spencer has also asked the council's chief executive, Carole Hudson to contact St Helens Chamber to see if any further help can be given to the workers at the Lea Green site.
He was backed by the leader of the Labour group, Marie Rimmer, who said the Government must review the regulations, which help fund employment opportunities at Remploy.
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